E. Remington & Sons Rolling Block Rifle 28” Barrel .35 Cal, ATF Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,275
WOA#: WY240310CB032
Make: Remington
Model: Rolling Block
Serial Number: 11161
Year of Manufacture: Circa, 1870s – 1880s
Caliber: .35 Cal bore, straight walled cartridge. (Exact chambering unknown, we suggest casting the chamber to check.)
Action Type: Rolling Block, Center Fire Single Shot.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “E. REMINGTON & SONS, ILION N.Y.” The side of the receiver is marked with patent dates. The serial is underneath the rear tang.
Barrel Length: 28″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a dovetailed flip-up Beach sight. The rear sight is an adjustable tangent V- notch.
Stock Configuration & Condition: There is a two piece walnut stock with a capped forend, straight grip, straight comb and steel semi-crescent buttplate. The buttstock has been sanded down. There are pressure dents and scratches throughout. The LOP measures 14.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Fair overall condition for antique.
Type of Finish: Blued.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is semi-sharp. There is moderate erosion and pitting. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 25% of its metal finish. There are scratches and light scuffs scattered about the metal. There is light rusting throughout. Most of the finish has gone to patina. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are faint. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition for an antique Rifle.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The E. Remington & Sons Rolling Block Rifle is a classic single-shot rifle design that gained widespread popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Developed by the renowned American firearms manufacturer E. Remington & Sons, the rolling block action mechanism was known for its simplicity, strength, and reliability. Originally introduced in the mid-19th century, the Rolling Block Rifle saw extensive military service around the world. It was adopted by numerous countries for military use due to its rugged construction and ease of maintenance. Variants of the Rolling Block Rifle were chambered in various calibers, including .45-70 Government, .43 Spanish, 7x57mm Mauser, and others, depending on the specific requirements of the purchasing nation. In addition to military contracts, the Rolling Block Rifle was also popular among civilian shooters, hunters, and frontiersmen. Its robust design and reputation for accuracy made it a favorite for target shooting, hunting small to medium-sized game, and even long-range shooting competitions.
The Rolling Block Rifle’s legacy endures to this day, with many antique examples still in use by collectors, enthusiasts, and shooters who appreciate its historical significance and timeless design. Its reputation for reliability, accuracy, and versatility cemented its place in firearms history as one of the most iconic and enduring rifle designs of the late 19th century. -R.E.